To that end, the Madison County Health Department is offering residents an opportunity to get involved by becoming a volunteer with the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC).

Since November 2005, Madison County Health Department has been recruiting volunteers for its MRC unit, which is now 284 volunteers strong. However, more people are needed.

“Our goal is to have well-trained volunteers functioning effectively under the Incident Command System in order to maximize community health during a public health emergency,” said Debra Tscheschlok, the Madison County Health Department’s public health emergency response coordinator.

Never miss a local story.

Sign up today for unlimited digital access to our website, apps, the digital newspaper and more.

Anyone 18 years of age and older can join the MRC. People a variety of backgrounds and interests are needed.

“Volunteers do not have to have a medical background, because we need individuals to fill non-medical positions, as well as those licensed to administer medications,” Tscheschlok said. Volunteer orientation training is the first step toward meeting this goal.”

To learn more about the Madison County Medical Reserve Corps, visit www.madisonchd.org and click on the MRC tab.

Sign up to be a Medical Reserve Corps Volunteer

Madison County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) will be holding a Volunteer Orientation Training on Monday, Sept. 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Madison County Health Department, 101 E. Edwardsville Road in Wood River.

Volunteers will learn about the Madison County MRC, Public Health 101, Incident Command System, Strategic National Stockpile, and Family Preparedness.